Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chesapeake, Virginia to Troy, Michigan

Driving from Chesapeake, Virginia to Troy, Michigan may not be your first choice when it comes to travel destinations. But sometimes the journey can be just as enjoyable as the destination itself. This road trip covers a distance of approximately 560 miles and takes around 8 hours to complete. Along the way, there are five unexpected places to stop that can add some excitement and fun to your journey.

Halfway Point: Somerset, PA

Before we dive into the five unexpected places, let's make a brief stop at the halfway point – Somerset, PA. This quaint town is located near the Pennsylvania Turnpike and is the perfect place to take a break and stretch your legs. Somerset is busy with attractions, including the Somerset Historical Center, which showcases the area's early settlement days and the history of farming. Visitors can also check out the Kauffman's BBQ Chicken and Catering to experience the local flavors of the region.

1. Fallingwater House - Mill Run, PA

Located in Mill Run, PA, is one of the gems of the state, Fallingwater House. The house was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935 and was built over a waterfall. Visitors come from all over the world to see this architectural masterpiece, which is now a National Historic Landmark. The house is open to tours from March to December, allowing architecture enthusiasts to explore the beauty of Wright's design. After visiting the house, visitors can grab a bite to eat at the Falling Water Cafe.

2. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame - Cleveland, OH

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame may not be the most unexpected place to visit, but it is still a must-see for music lovers. Located in Cleveland, OH, the museum features a range of exhibits that explore the history of rock and roll and its impact on culture and society. There are also live performances, film screenings, and educational programs for visitors to enjoy. Cleveland is also known for their delicious local food, and visitors can try the famous Polish Boy sandwich at Seti's Polish Boys food truck, located just outside the museum.

3. Mackinac Island - Mackinac Island, MI

Mackinac Island is the epitome of a hidden gem. The island is located between Michigan's upper and lower peninsulas, and there are no cars allowed on the island. The transportation on the island is on foot, bike, or horse-drawn carriage. The historic Grand Hotel is a popular attraction on the island, and visitors can sit on the world's longest porch overlooking the Straits of Mackinac. Mackinac Island offers numerous fudge shops, and Murdick's Fudge is a must-visit for a sweet treat.

4. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park - Grand Rapids, MI

The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a gem located in Grand Rapids, MI. The Garden is a 158-acre property that features sculpture exhibits, a children's garden, and other beautiful botanical displays. The Garden also features plenty of trails for visitors to explore, and they can also visit the farm animals in the Michigan farmhouse. The park also features a small cafe where visitors can grab a quick bite. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee while surrounded by flowers overlooking the pond at the cafe.

5. Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum - Portage, MI

The Air Zoo in Portage, MI, is a great place to learn about aviation and space. Visitors can see and touch more than 100 rare and historic aircraft, including a Blackbird spy plane and a replica of the Wright Brothers' flyer. The museum also features interactive exhibits and flight simulators, making it fun for both kids and adults. For visitors looking for a snack, the Air Zoo Snack Zone offers a variety of treats, including nachos, popcorn, and ice cream.

Conclusion

This road trip may take a little longer than the usual travel destination, but the journey is a reward itself. The five unexpected places presented here showcase the rich history, culture, and art of the destinations, and offer a welcome break from hours of driving. Whether you are a lover of architecture, music, nature, or science, this road trip has something for everyone. So hit the road, and enjoy the journey!